Little Bulbs Make Winter Short

If bulbs are planted in a southern exposure or in a protected corner, blooms may appear in February. Generally leading the procession of spring flowers are snowdrop, winter aconite, some species crocus, scilla, and the bulbous iris such as Danford and reticulata. Early daffodils and hyacinths will follow closely, depending on exposure and weather conditions.

Snowdrops are particularly suited to protected places under shrubs, just near the edge of the branch spread. Here they may be left undisturbed after flowering and do not have to compete with grass. Plant them quite close, only about an inch apart, for the best effect. They need a well-drained soil, rich in humus. Even though extremely small, these bulbs should be planted about three inches deep.

Snowdrops are white, but brighter color will soon be added by species crocus and winter aconite. Winter aconite produces yellow buttercup type flowers and may be planted along with the snowdrops. The tiny tubers dry rapidly, so they should be planted promptly after purchase. Set them about two inches deep. Soil should be loose and high in organic matter. Once established, which may take several attempts, they produce seeds which help them spread.

By early March, if not sooner, we can expect some species crocus to add their yellow, cream and lavender colors. Many varieties in the Crysanthus species of crocus are quite early. A few varieties to consider would be Snowbunting, Advance, Cream Beauty, Goldilocks and Lady Killer. The orange-yellow species ancyrensis and susianus (Cloth of Gold) are also early and colorful. Plant crocus about two inches deep in a light soil. Do not cut off foliage before it dies down naturally.

By the time the early species crocus are in full bloom, we can expect the scillas to add their blues and whites. Also called Siberian squill, this plant should be a companion of the others under shrubs where they can all be left undisturbed. Scillas also need a well-drained loam soil. Large quantities of humus should be added to the soil before planting. Place them about three inches deep and three inches apart.

Two bulbous iris that flower soon in the succession are the Iris reticulata, and the Iris danfordiae. The Danford iris is very low and bright yellow. The reticulata types are taller, but very delicate in blues and purples. As the other bulbs, they need a humusy, well-drained soil where they may be left undisturbed. Plant them about three inches deep.

As April progresses, these flowers will be joined by early daffodils. These might include such varieties as February Gold, February Silver, Peeping Tom, Unsurpassable and others. Then starts the progression of hyacinths, puschkinia and chinodoxa (Glory of the Snow) as spring gets well underway with the addition of flowering trees and shrubs. With proper planning, spring color can greet us at the door sooner than we ever expected.

American Meadows, When To Plant Spring Flowering Bulbs